Kinski

It’s my 21st birthday and I’m on my way to see one of my favorite bands play a small show at the Sunset Tavern in Ballard. We stop by Katie’s house to get some drinks and then head over to the show. As we’re walking up to the bar, I see him. Chris Martin, lead guitar and vocals of Kinski. Excitement is thick in my blood. Before the show starts, I see Chris at the bar. Of course, a sober me would never walk up to him and start talking to him. But, seeming as I definitely was not sober, this is what I did. I don’t remember much of the conversation except vaguely recalling me being really obnoxious probably and him wanting to just get away. I hope that wasn’t really the case, but I’m not sure. All I know is that I begged him to play my favorite song that night since it was my birthday. He said he was sorry, but couldn’t remember how to play Passwords & Alcohol. I was pretty devastated, but I tried not to let it show. Once the first drum punches and crisp guitar strums started, that was it for me. I danced the whole time. THE WHOLE TIME. Towards the end, Chris gets on the mic and says, “This one goes out to Selena”. And it was my song.

That was probably the best night of my life. Now, this is one band that has never gotten as much appreciation as it deserves. They’ve been around for over a decade, have released 3 albums with Subpop Records, and opened for Tool. Their sound is, not to put lightly, genius. Pure perfection. Many have reviewed their latest album (which isn’t actually very late, since it was released in 2007) and said that they kind of sold out by adding lyrics since they are known for being an instrumental rock band. I disagree. The lyrics are plain and simple and add a fantastic touch to the few tracks they are included in. The overwhelming, head throbbing loudness of Down Below It’s Chaos wins the war in my book. Though, hearing them live is nothing in comparison. After the show I couldn’t hear a thing for days. It was awesome. By the end of the album you might wonder if that was the same band as when it started. Each track builds and builds and builds until it spills over into a complex, beautiful mess. They are really quite overdue for another album, so that is why I am doing this post. Hopefully one of them will read it and say, “Alright let’s do this shit.”

I’m sending you to their myspace because that is the only place you can hear the most streaming music by them. If you want to experience a great show, they are playing at the Vera Project this coming Tuesday! It is HIGHLY suggested you attend.